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VOLUNTEER WITH US

“In my time volunteering with 2-1-1, I gained immeasurable skills and experiences that have furthered me, both personally and academically. I loved being able to help people one-on-one – it’s very rewarding to hear someone tell you “thanks” for providing a listening ear. 2-1-1 provides a truly unique opportunity for anyone who wants to pursue counseling or social work.”

- Rachel K., Former Volunteer Counselor

“2-1-1 Big Bend offered a wonderfully eye opening experience. It’s great to know there are resources available for the community and it was satisfying for me to be able to provide referrals to such services.”

- Joi R., Former Volunteer Counselor

“This has been a once in a lifetime opportunity and I will never forget my time at 2-1-1 Big Bend changing and influencing callers’ lives. I am so grateful I got to be a volunteer with such a dynamic and engaging organization.”

- Sara F., Former Volunteer Counselor

“I’ve loved my time with 2-1-1 Big Bend. When I really needed help, my supervisors worked with me. I’ve learned so much that can be applied to the rest of my life. Supervising trainees was challenging, but helping someone else through that process was rewarding.”

- Katie L., Former Volunteer Counselor

“Volunteering has helped me grow, not only as a person, but professionally as a social worker. I am more knowledgeable about the types of services available to people in need and I am more competent in dealing with people in crisis. 2-1-1 Big Bend does so much for the community and I am so glad I got to be a part of it”

hotline training

2-1-1 Big Bend relies on the support of dedicated volunteers to keep our hotlines fully staffed. We are proud to have one of the most comprehensive hotline counselor training programs in the nation.

The foundational concepts of our training are "active listening" counseling, crisis theory, and a structured model for handling crisis calls. Once you have learned these basics, you will be trained to handle a variety of types of calls, including those involving:

Professional & Academic Rewards
• Internship, work-study, & course credit upon approval
• Experience providing direct service assisting with a variety of needs and concerns
• Extensive awareness about community resources and services
• Opportunities for paid employment
• Letters of recommendation from supervisory staff upon completing the 200-hour commitment

Training to answer a hotline can be intense and demanding, but the 2-1-1 Big Bend team is here to support and work alongside you!

faq

Where would I be training and volunteering?2-1-1 Big Bend operates out of a confidential location for the safety of our counselors and the confidential information we interact with. If you are accepted to attend training, you will sign a Confidentiality Agreement and be provided the address.

Do I need prior experience?Nope! Work or volunteer experience is helpful, but not necessary. We look for individuals who display empathy, a willingness to learn, resourcefulness, and non-judgmental attitudes.

Do you interview prospective volunteer trainees?Yes, this helps us get a feel for someone's attitudes and motivations related to telephone counseling and helping people in need. You will be also asked to provide contact information for three personal and/or professional references.

Who are your volunteers?A diverse group of adults (18+) living in the Tallahassee area, representing a range of occupations, interests, and backgrounds. A significant number are students training to enter human service professions. We also make a special effort to recruit bilingual individuals who can talk directly with native Haitian-Creole or Spanish speakers.

How often will I be expected to volunteer?18+ hours per month with a flexible schedule.